Do you eat because you’re tired, bored, stressed or need comfort? If so this post is for you. Here’s my 5 top tips to help you stop your emotions driving your eating habits.

5 Top tips to quit emotionally eating

1. Stop!! – Our heads have a nasty way of turning to auto pilot. Giving yourself time to think before reaching for the fridge or cupboard is an important first step. Mentally saying stop or wait whenever that first craving hits interrupts this unconscious pattern and allows you time to question your behaviour.

2. Ask yourself what is it I really need? – Being able to recognise that you’re not hungry in that moment but you are tired, bored or stressed is a big step.

3. Try an alternative – if you’re bored….do something, if you’re stressed….maybe a walk or some relaxation would help. Do something which will sooth the emotion and doesn’t involve food or drink.

4. Notice the difference – Half the battle is allowing your mind to notice something is different. Too often we’re that focused on ‘I want chocolate’ or ‘I need a biscuit’ that this is the only thing our mind can focus on. Give yourself time to notice you’re feeling whatever emotion it is and tell yourself that what you’re doing is making a difference.

5. Make it difficult – Us humans are inherently lazy beings. By nature we’re designed to favor the easy option. So make eating or drinking whatever is your nemesis the hard option and you’ll be surprised at how easy your mind will give it up. Here’s an idea to get you started:

Put the biscuits or chocolate in a screw top barrel at the back of a cupboard behind the cans or spices and make sure it’s returned there after each visit. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your brain can’t be bothered to get to them.

I hope these tips help you break your emotional eating habits, if you need more dedicated 1-2-1 support to get your weight loss on track call me (07712 445651) and book your free 20 minute meet and greet consultation.